The Chief Inspector Custody of Merseyside Police explained on 24/3/2020:
“We have had a matter in at SAS today where the DP had symptoms and it was agreed to do a phone consult only between the DP and the sol (DP’s choice) and the IV officer did the disclosure over the phone to the sol which seemed a practical way of doing things.
The NPCC guidance also suggests the practical use of RUI and Bail to put the case for progression post infection which in some cases could be a useful way to progress again depending on how ill the client is.
The sols could if wanted use the closed visit rooms at the suites for consultations as a measure (but again would be for the sol to ask for as some would want to visit face to face) and again can be afforded the use of alco gels to wash hands with as are available to any visitor if they ask. (we won’t leave them out as some DP’s have tried to drink them historically)
Their employers should also be providing any PPE for them as needed in line with their own risk assessments by the firms.
If the DP had virus symptoms I would expect that the CO would advise the solicitor of this but equally this should perhaps be asked by the sol as well and doubtless would be on the custody record that the sol would want to see before asking to see their client.
The suites have had an enhanced cleaning regime put in place by estates so cleaning of areas is much more frequent and we are triaging the DP’s with the medical staff in the vehicle dock for those with suspected symptoms.”